Thursday, December 5, 2024
The brightest stars in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry were recognized at the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards 2024, held at The Langham in London. The prestigious event, which took place at the 5-star hotel, celebrated the people, projects, and innovations that have made a significant impact on the sector over the past year.
Marking its 16th anniversary, the BWF Awards 2024 attracted the highest number of entries in its history, showcasing an impressive range of talent across seven award categories. Guests were treated to a night of fine dining and applauded for the remarkable achievements that underscore the industry’s commitment to excellence and progress.
The winners of this year’s awards were:
BWF Health and Safety Award – Sponsored by NFU Mutual
JELD WEN was honored for their development of a Radio Frequency Tag System that uses AI technology to protect pedestrians from moving industrial vehicles. The judges praised the initiative as a major investment in modern RFID and AI technologies, which significantly enhance safety by reducing risks for both employees and visiting HGV drivers. Their approach demonstrated a clear commitment to improving safety in one of the highest risk areas at work.
BWF Apprentice of the Year Award – Sponsored by CITB
Lilli-Mae Broadhurst of Gowercroft Joinery was celebrated for her rapid learning and dedication. Her employer’s nomination highlighted her ambition, hard work, and determination that led to a quick promotion within the company. The judges were particularly impressed by her commercial awareness, initiative, and positive attitude, which added considerable value to the business.
BWF Heritage Project of the Year Award – Sponsored by Remmers (UK) Limited
Precision Made Joinery was recognized for its exceptional contribution to the restoration of the Grade 2 Listed property, The Old Rectory in Fornham All Saints, Suffolk. The judges praised the company’s craftsmanship in delivering a traditional result with quality workmanship, showcasing a broad range of high-level traditional woodworking and joinery skills.
BWF Innovation Award – Sponsored by Anker Stuy Coatings
Heron Fire Doors received this prestigious award for their development of ‘Herodor,’ a cost-efficient external door set that improves fire safety standards. Judges commended the innovation as a timely and affordable product offering that significantly enhances fire safety at a lower cost to consumers.
BWF Rising Star Award – Sponsored by Accsys Technologies Plc
Tautvydas Bumblys from Heron Joinery was recognized for his dedication, leadership, and community involvement. His employer’s nomination celebrated his contributions to the business, including his organisational and leadership skills that played a key role in helping Heron Joinery achieve its goals.
BWF Sustainability Award – Sponsored by Mirka
Gowercroft Joinery was awarded for its ongoing efforts to improve manufacturing processes, reduce environmental impact, and implement Life Cycle Assessments. Judges were impressed by the company’s comprehensive commitment to sustainability and pioneering efforts to minimize its ecological footprint.
BWF Woodworking Project of the Year Award – Sponsored by Impra Wood Protection Limited
D Foord Joinery Ltd was recognized for their technically challenging design and installation of an elliptical staircase in a Georgian house using English oak. The judges were in awe of the craftsmanship and engineering involved, calling it a “perfect example of traditional woodworking skills.”
Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, commented on the success of this year’s awards:
“It is truly inspiring to see the exceptional quality and quantity of entries this year, especially those for our new Sustainability Award, which received an outstanding response and attracted the highest number of entries in this year’s submissions. It’s been incredible to see all the impressive work and individuals who have made an impact on the industry. The BWF Awards are a rare opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the fantastic achievements of the past year and the skills, dedication, and technical expertise that drive our industry forward. As the Awards continue to grow and the submissions become harder to judge, the hard work, skills, and innovation displayed by our fantastic finalists truly celebrate the very best of our profession. Congratulations to all of our winners on their impressive achievements.”
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